Referendum, Forum and Maze
The most enduring constitutional event of the year was the referendum held on 7 September. The proposal had originated under the previous Fianna Fáil administration but was carried through the Oireachtas during FitzGerald’s coalition government after months of contentious debate. The wording inserted Article 40.3.3 into the Constitution, acknowledging the right to life of the unborn while having due regard to the equal right to life of the mother. The referendum passed by a large majority. More than 840,000 people voted in favour, and the amendment became part of the Constitution.